2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Ford Edge

The 2020 Acura MDX was praised for its sleek design and functional aesthetics. It didn't strive to electrify onlookers but leaned into a sophisticated, unobtrusive style that fit comfortably in any parking lot. The Jewel Eye LED headlights were a standout feature, incorporating five LED elements per side, contributing not just to visibility but also to the vehicle's refined front visage. This design element was paired harmoniously with a trapezoidal grille showcasing the Acura emblem, ensuring the MDX had an expressive face despite its subdued overall styling.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Edge retained much of its design elements from the 2019 refresh. This gave the Edge a contemporary look that integrated the hallmark Ford design smartly into its body shell. While not overly flashy, the Edge provided a more refreshing alternative to the over-styled Chevy Blazer and Hyundai Santa Fe. The Edge Titanium added chrome accents for a premium feel, whereas the Edge ST featured a sportier look with a blacked-out grille, 20-inch wheels, and a body kit. Inside, the Edge's interior revealed its age with a design that seemed less cohesive than its exterior, though models like the Titanium and ST did bring enhancements like leather upholstery and sport seats.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered versatile powertrain options. The base MDX was equipped with a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine yielding 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The MDX Sport Hybrid upsized the performance with a combination 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine and three electric motors, totaling 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, combined with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and standard all-wheel drive.

For driving dynamics, the MDX impressed with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which featured torque-vectoring for refined handling, especially noticeable when accelerating around corners. The MDX delivered commendable straight-line performance and agility in curves, aided by its four-wheel independent suspension for a comfortable and controlled ride.

The 2021 Ford Edge also presented a couple of compelling engine choices. Most models housed a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, coming with an eight-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive. For those craving more power, the Edge ST featured an EcoBoost twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6, generating an impressive 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque with 93-octane fuel, making it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

While the Edge ST may not rival real performance SUVs like the Porsche Macan, it did provide a sporty and engaging driving experience, aided by model-specific suspension tuning, available upgraded brakes, and larger wheels. Tow ratings were notable too, with the Edge ST capable of towing up to 4,525 pounds, though short of the 5,000 pounds ratings of the Honda Passport and VW Atlas Cross Sport.

As a three-row SUV, the 2020 Acura MDX offered substantial interior space and flexibility. The MDX’s second row could slide and recline, optimizing access to the third row and allowing for flexible legroom distribution among passengers. Cargo capacity was generous, with 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet when the third row was folded, and a cavernous 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows flattened. Clever storage solutions included a large glove box, versatile center console, and additional compartments for smaller items throughout the cabin.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Ford Edge, a two-row SUV, boasted ample rear-seat headroom and competitive legroom. Its cargo space was among the best for two-row midsize crossovers, offering 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The Edge also featured a foot-activated power liftgate in higher trims for added convenience. The interior showed thoughtful design touches with dual-zone climate control and useful, if somewhat limited, storage spaces due to the narrow console.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a robust set of technology features standard across its range. The base model included Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a variety of multimedia options like a CD player and SiriusXM radio. Optional packages significantly enhanced the tech suite. The Technology Package added features like rain-sensing wipers and GPS-linked climate control, while the Advance Package offered further enhancements such as a surround-view camera system and heated rear seats. An Entertainment Package could be added for rear passengers’ enjoyment, featuring a DVD system and additional audio-visual equipment.

On the other hand, the 2021 Ford Edge incorporated Ford’s latest Sync 4 infotainment system, highlighted by a large 12-inch touchscreen. It came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM with 360L, and a built-in 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Edge ST upgraded the audio experience with a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system. For the 2021 model, Ford added more USB ports, including a USB-C port in the rear, ensuring that the vehicle met modern tech needs efficiently.

In terms of safety, the 2020 Acura MDX came well-equipped. Standard features included AcuraWatch, comprising adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, among others. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package featured Head-Up Warning and a surround-view camera. The MDX's ACE body structure enhanced crash safety, earning it top safety ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Ford Edge also impressed with its safety credentials. It earned the IIHS “Top Safety Pick” distinction, achieving “Good” ratings in all crash tests and excellent ratings for front crash prevention in vehicle-to-vehicle situations. Standard safety equipment under Ford Co-Pilot360 included blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and forward-collision warning. Higher trims gained additional features like adaptive cruise control with lane centering and Evasive Steering Assist.